The Highlands combines a jaw-dropping natural setting on the slopes of the extinct Olmoti volcano with just eight high-tech tents and exciting activities like hiking the Olmoti and descending not only into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater but also the lesser-known but equally incredible Empakaai Crater.

The en suite tents, which have flush toilets and hot running water, are fronted by celling-to-floor faceted windows that allow you to drink in the surrounding wilderness and Africa’s big sky. As a high-altitude camp, the tents are both warm and stylish, with enclosed fireplaces to ward off the morning and evening chill. There are eight tents, including one for families and another for honeymooners.

In keeping with the exquisite attention to detail paid throughout the design and construction of The Highlands, the open-air breakfast deck has been perfectly positioned to make the most of the view, while the bar and fire pit overlook the sunset.

In addition to classic game drives to and hot-lunch picnics in Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands offers unusual access to two of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s lesser-seen gems. A half-day hike takes you to the birds, butterflies, and myriad fern species on an ancient Maasai cattle trail to the Olmoti crater. Games like buffalo, zebra bushbuck, and the occasional elephant can be spied by hikers.

Another memorable journey is a drive to the Empakaai Crater, followed by a hike into the crater floor to see flocks of pink flamingos and the mountainous forest. You will also be able to aspects of traditional Maasai life, as well as catch a glimpse of Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s most active volcano.

Highlights

• Incredible setting on Olmoti Crater
• Game drives in Ngorongoro Crater
• Hiking in Olmoti and Empakaai Craters
• High-tech tents with full en suite bathrooms
• Only eight tents, including honeymoon and family units

Activities

• 4X4 DRIVES
• BIRD WATCHING
• FULL-DAY SAFARIS
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• HIKING
• NATURE DRIVES
• SPECIALIST GUIDES
• STAR GAZING
• SUNDOWNERS

The Highlands has set a whole new standard at the Ngorongoro crater with its majestic views and exclusive location. Immerse yourself in local Masai culture with village visits, get active on nature walks to Olmoti, or explore the Empakaai crater. With only seven tents you get to enjoy a very personalized experience in a unique setting.

Rooms

Honeymoon Suite - Gold

The Honeymoon dome emphasizes privacy, rest, and relaxation, with a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom with a double-headed shower, as well as wood wood-burning fireplace for warmth in the colder months. In addition, there is a seating area, a large elevated deck, and an outdoor hot tub that looks out over the beautiful landscape of Ngorongoro.

Suite

There are eight tents at The Highlands, including one for families and one for honeymooners. Each consists of a three-quarter canvas dome that is completed by a large, floor-to-ceiling faceted window that allows for 180-degree views from inside. Each has an en suite bathroom with a flush toilet and running water, as well as a spacious outdoor deck with a table and chairs.

Because The Highlands is situated at an altitude on the Olmoti Crater, each tent has an enclosed stove for warmth. The décor is eclectic, with warm wooden paneling juxtaposed with beautiful photographs of Africa, Eames-inspired chairs, and cowhide rugs.

There are four tents with double or twin beds. Two other tents also have twins or doubles, as well as two extra twins on their mezzanine levels, to sleep three adults or two adults and two children, with a shared bathroom.

Family Suite

The family room sleeps six in a large dome tent with a mezzanine level and a smaller dome tent across the deck.

Facilities

The Highlands has a comfortable sitting ‘dome’ for when you wish to relax in the company of other guests between game drives or hikes.

Dining

Breakfasts and lunches can be enjoyed at separate tables on the outdoor deck that has unhindered views of the sunrise. Supper is taken in the dining tent at long tables where you can meet other guests and chat with knowledgeable rangers.

Toast the sunset with a tipple from the bar, which also has an outdoor deck and sheltered fire pit.